JAMBALAYA RECIPE

JAMBALAYA RECIPE is a easy Cajun recipe that serves 6. 450 calories per serving. Recipe by Downshiftology on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 1 hr

Cost: $23.69 total, $3.95 per serving

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons Paprika (sweet paprika preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons Kosher Salt
  • 2 tablespoons Garlic Powder
  • 1 tablespoon Onion Powder
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Oregano
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Thyme
  • 1 tablespoon Cayenne Pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Black Pepper (freshly ground if possible)
  • 2 ribs Celery (chopped)
  • 2 Bell Pepper (any color, chopped)
  • 1 large Onion (chopped)
  • 4 Garlic Cloves (minced)
  • 0.5 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
  • 1 Bay Leaf
  • 11 ounces Andouille Sausage (sliced into bite‑size rounds; substitute Spanish chorizo if unavailable)
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast or Thighs (boneless, skinless, cut into bite‑size pieces)
  • 1 pound Jumbo Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 1.5 cups Long‑Grain White Basmati Rice (rinsed; can substitute parboiled rice for firmer texture)
  • 15 ounce can Crushed Tomatoes
  • 3 cups Low‑Sodium Chicken Broth
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil (extra‑virgin preferred)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Homemade Cajun Seasoning

    Combine paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, and black pepper in a small bowl. Stir until evenly mixed and set aside.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Prep the Holy Trinity Vegetables

    Trim and dice 2 ribs of celery, 2 bell peppers, and 1 large onion. Place the chopped vegetables in a mixing bowl.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Prepare Garlic and Proteins

    Smash 4 garlic cloves with the flat side of a knife, peel, and set aside. Slice 11 oz Andouille sausage into bite‑size rounds. Cut 1 lb chicken (breast or thighs) into bite‑size pieces and toss with 1 Tbsp of the homemade Cajun seasoning, coating evenly.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Sauté Chicken

    Heat 2 Tbsp olive oil in the Dutch oven over medium‑high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sauté 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden and just cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: Medium-high

  5. Brown the Sausage

    If the pot looks dry, add an additional 1 Tbsp olive oil. Add the sliced Andouille sausage in a single layer and brown 3 minutes, flipping once, until a crust forms. Transfer sausage to the same plate with the chicken.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: Medium-high

  6. Sauté the Holy Trinity

    Add the chopped celery, bell peppers, and onion to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4–5 minutes until softened and the vegetables release their moisture.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: Medium

  7. Add Garlic and Spices

    Stir in the minced garlic, ½ tsp red pepper flakes, and 1 Tbsp Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: Medium

  8. Toast the Rice

    Add 1½ cups rinsed basmati rice to the pot, stirring to coat each grain with the seasoned oil and vegetables. Cook for 1 minute.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: Medium

  9. Add Liquids and Simmer

    Stir in 1 bay leaf, the 15‑oz can of crushed tomatoes, and 3 cups low‑sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: Medium

  10. Cook the Rice

    Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice cook for 7–8 minutes until just al dente. Stir once or twice gently; avoid excessive stirring.

    Time: PT8M

    Temperature: Low

  11. Finish with Shrimp and Rest

    Remove the bay leaf. Add 1 lb jumbo shrimp, the cooked chicken, and sausage back into the pot. Turn off the heat, cover, and let sit for 4–5 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and the remaining liquid is absorbed.

    Time: PT5M

  12. Garnish and Serve

    Stir in chopped green onions and fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve hot.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
450
Protein
25 g
Carbohydrates
45 g
Fat
15 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free

Allergens: Shellfish

Last updated: April 18, 2026

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JAMBALAYA RECIPE

Recipe by Downshiftology

A hearty one‑pot Louisiana classic packed with chicken, Andouille sausage, shrimp, veggies, and perfectly cooked rice. This easy‑to‑follow recipe uses a homemade Cajun seasoning and tips to keep the rice fluffy, making it perfect for Mardi Gras or a weeknight dinner.

EasyCajunServes 6

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
20m
Prep
31m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 1m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$23.69
Total cost
$3.95
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Properly coating and toasting the rice to prevent mushiness
  • Cooking the rice only to al dente before adding shrimp
  • Using residual heat to finish cooking the shrimp without overcooking

Safety Warnings

  • Handle raw chicken and shrimp with separate utensils to avoid cross‑contamination.
  • Hot oil can splatter; use a splatter guard if needed.
  • Ensure shrimp are cooked until opaque to avoid foodborne illness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Classic Louisiana Jambalaya in Cajun and Creole cuisine?

A

Jambalaya originated in Louisiana as a fusion of Spanish paella, French cuisine, and African influences. It became a staple for celebrations like Mardi Gras and reflects the multicultural heritage of the Gulf Coast, combining rice with the "holy trinity" of vegetables, smoked sausage, and seafood.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Classic Louisiana Jambalaya in Cajun cuisine?

A

In Cajun (or "brown") jambalaya, the rice is cooked with a dark roux and no tomatoes, while Creole (or "red") jambalaya includes tomatoes, as shown in this recipe. Some regions add ham, oysters, or use different sausages like smoked pork or chorizo.

cultural
Q

How is Classic Louisiana Jambalaya traditionally served in Louisiana during Mardi Gras?

A

During Mardi Gras, jambalaya is often served family‑style in large pots, accompanied by crusty French bread, hot sauce, and a side of coleslaw. It’s enjoyed as a communal, festive dish that feeds a crowd.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Classic Louisiana Jambalaya traditionally associated with in Cajun culture?

A

Jambalaya is a go‑to dish for Mardi Gras, family reunions, backyard barbecues, and any gathering where a hearty, one‑pot meal is needed. Its versatility makes it popular for both casual weeknight dinners and large celebrations.

cultural
Q

What makes Classic Louisiana Jambalaya special or unique in Cajun cuisine?

A

The dish’s uniqueness comes from the "holy trinity" of celery, bell pepper, and onion, the smoky Andouille sausage, and the balance of spice from homemade Cajun seasoning. The cooking technique—building flavor in a single pot—creates a deep, layered taste that’s hard to replicate with shortcuts.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Classic Louisiana Jambalaya at home?

A

Common errors include overcooking the rice, which makes it mushy, not deglazing the pot after sautéing the proteins, and adding shrimp too early, causing them to become rubbery. Following the timing tips in this recipe prevents those pitfalls.

technical
Q

Why does this Classic Louisiana Jambalaya recipe use basmati rice instead of traditional long‑grain rice?

A

Basmati rice cooks quickly and stays separate when toasted and simmered for a short time, helping avoid mushiness. The recipe notes that parboiled rice is an alternative for an even firmer grain, but basmati provides a reliable texture for home cooks.

technical
Q

Can I make Classic Louisiana Jambalaya ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can prepare the jambalaya a day ahead. Cool it quickly, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth. The shrimp will stay tender if reheated briefly.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when my Classic Louisiana Jambalaya is done?

A

The rice should be fluffy with each grain separate, the vegetables softened but not mushy, and the shrimp pink and opaque. The broth should be mostly absorbed, leaving a slightly moist but not soupy consistency.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Downshiftology specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Downshiftology, hosted by Lisa, specializes in wholesome, balanced meals, meal‑prep guides, and nutrition‑focused cooking. She emphasizes whole‑food ingredients, easy‑to‑follow techniques, and healthy twists on classic comfort foods.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Downshiftology's approach to Cajun cooking differ from other Cajun cooking channels?

A

Downshiftology focuses on simplifying traditional Cajun dishes with clear, step‑by‑step instructions and health‑conscious tweaks, such as using low‑sodium broth and offering gluten‑free options. Other Cajun channels may prioritize authenticity over convenience, while Downshiftology balances flavor with everyday practicality.

channel

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